Spanish Tomato Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spanish Tomato Bread is the epitome of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. The tomatoes are the star of the dish, their natural sweetness and juiciness enhanced by a rub of garlic. The olive oil adds richness, while a sprinkling of sea salt elevates the flavors even more. The crispy, crusty bread provides the perfect vehicle for all the goodness. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy snack or side dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 2 slices crusty bread
• 1 clove garlic, halved
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (or to taste)
• Sea salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Toast the bread: Toast the crusty bread slices until golden brown and crispy. You can do this in a toaster, oven, or on a grill for a bit of extra char.
2. Prepare the garlic: Once the bread is toasted, rub the cut side of the garlic halves over the surface of the bread. This will infuse the bread with a subtle garlic flavor.
3. Prepare the tomato: Chop the tomato into small pieces and remove any excess seeds or juice to avoid soggy bread.
4. Assemble the dish: Spoon the chopped tomatoes generously onto the toasted bread. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
5. Serve: Serve immediately as a snack or side dish. Enjoy the vibrant and fresh flavors of this Spanish classic!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (if toasting the bread)
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

1. Add cheese: Top with a slice of Manchego or another Spanish cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Use different bread: While crusty bread is traditional, you can try this with sourdough or any hearty bread you enjoy.
3. Herb it up: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano to the tomatoes for added freshness and aroma.
4. Spicy option: Drizzle with a bit of chili oil or top with red pepper flakes for some heat.
5. Add anchovies: For a more savory version, top the bread with anchovy fillets.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Spanish Tomato Bread is best enjoyed immediately after assembling. However, you can store leftover chopped tomato mixture in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• Reheating: If you have leftover bread, it can be toasted again briefly. However, once assembled with the tomato, it’s best served fresh, as the bread will absorb moisture from the tomatoes and become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

While fresh tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable. Be sure to drain the canned tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic rub and toast the bread ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the dish right before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! While traditional Spanish Pan con Tomate uses crusty bread, you can experiment with other types of bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, for a slightly different texture.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This dish is naturally vegan as long as you skip any cheese toppings. The tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil provide plenty of flavor on their own.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add a drizzle of balsamic glaze, chopped olives, or even a fried egg on top for a more substantial meal.

Can I use pre-sliced bread?

Yes, you can use pre-sliced bread, but for the best results, toast it until crispy to give it a nice texture that holds up to the juicy tomatoes.

What kind of olive oil should I use?

Extra-virgin olive oil is recommended because of its rich flavor, but you can also use a milder olive oil if you prefer a more subtle taste.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.

Can I add other vegetables?

While tomatoes are traditional, you can try adding thinly sliced cucumber or bell peppers to the topping for added crunch and freshness.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, this dish works well as a light main course, especially when paired with a side salad or soup.

Conclusion

Spanish Tomato Bread is a simple, delicious, and wholesome dish that highlights the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh garlic, and good olive oil. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or a light meal, this classic Spanish recipe is sure to satisfy. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to option that packs a lot of flavor into every bite. Enjoy the taste of Spain in just a few minutes!

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